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SECURE SYNOPSIS: 02 MAY 2019

NOTE: Please remember that following ‘answers’ are NOT ‘model answers’. They are NOT synopsis too if we go by definition of the term. What we are providing is content that both meets demand of the question and at the same time gives you extra points in the form of background information.

Recently In Meghalaya, the Geological Survey of India (GSI) North Eastern Region (NER) installed two geological display boards at Mawmluh cave and Therriaghat to create awareness among visiting tourists and general public. Thus it is important for us to ponder upon the significance of Meghalayan age.

Key demands of the question:

The answer must elaborate upon the new Meghalayan age; how it came into existence, its significance, with respect to India and its relation with Anthropocene.

Directive word

Discuss – This is an all-encompassing directive – you have to debate on paper by going through the details of the issues concerned by examining each one of them. You have to give reasons for both for and against arguments.

Structure of the answer:

Introduction

In a few introductory lines explain Scientists still continue to refine the geologic timescale and recently have brought the official naming of a new age: the Meghalayan.

Body

Discuss the following aspects in the answer:

As of July 2018, the Holocene — the most recent epoch of time spanning from 11,700 years ago to the present — is divided into three ages: the Greenlandian, the Northgrippian, and the Meghalayan.

The global-scale climate change defines that the beginning of the Meghalayan coincides with a period of ongoing migration and collapse of many early human civilizations around the globe. Thus bringing us to the idea of Anthropocene – a proposed division of geologic time defined by signs of human activities in the geologic record.

Discuss relevance with India, why the name ?

Then move on to discuss – arguments both for and against an Anthropocene.

Explain how Human beings have clearly altered landscapes through deforestation, agriculture, and industrialization, which among other things have accelerated erosion and sediment accumulation. Plastics are accumulating in our oceans and biosphere, leaving a global-scale marker of these synthetic materials in soils and sediments. People are causing high extinction rates and rapid changes in where species are found around the world. And, of course, burning fossil fuels and human-induced climate change leave signatures in sediment records worldwide.

What are the challenges in agreeing to when the Anthropocene should begin?

Conclusion

Conclude with significance of the Meghalayan age.

Introduction:

Geologists have decided to classify the past 4,200 years as the Meghalayan Age. It is the most recent unit of the Geologic Time Scale in the 4.6 billion-year history of the Earth. Following this, the International Chronostratigraphic Chart, which depicts the timeline for Earth’s history was updated. Mawmluh cave made headlines earlier as high resolution stable isotopic studies of the stalagmites from the cave have shown that there was a major climatic event about 4200 years ago.

Body:

Meghalayan age:

The Meghalayan, the youngest stage, runs from 4,200 years ago to 1950. It began with a destructive drought, whose effects lasted two centuries, and severely disrupted civilisations.

The “Meghalayan Age” began 4,200 years ago and experienced an abrupt mega- drought and cooling around the globe.

The drought and the cooling lasted two centuries and severely impacted agricultural-based societies that developed in several regions after the end of the last Ice Age.

It resulted in the collapse of civilisations in Egypt, Greece, Syria, Palestine, Mesopotamia, the Indus Valley, and the Yangtze River Valley.

Evidence of the 4,200-year climatic event has been found on all seven continents.

This age is considered unique as this was the only age which began with a global cultural event produced by a global climatic event.

Geologists have also introduced two other age classifications:

Greenlandian Age (11,700 – 8,326 years ago) – began when the last ice age ended and the world began to warm up.

Northgrippian Age (8,326 – 4,200 years ago) – began after an abrupt global cooling started following the Greenlandian Age.

Together, these three stages stretch across the Holocene Epoch, which is the current geological time unit – having started 11,700 years ago.

The Holocene epoch falls under Cenozoic Era and is the time after Ice Age.

An International team of researchers collected some stalagmite which was deposited on the floor by plunging into the roof of the cave in Meghalaya. This helped the researchers to define the climate of that time in the history of the Earth. For this reason, the ‘Meghalayan Age’ has been named after Meghalaya.

Anthropocene:

The Anthropocene is a proposed epoch dating from the commencement of significant human impact on the Earth’s geology and ecosystems, including, but not limited to, anthropogenic climate change.

Various start dates for the Anthropocene have been proposed, ranging from the beginning of the Agricultural Revolution 12,000–15,000 years ago, to as recent as the Trinity test in 1945.

With climate change ruling the environment discourse, the sudden warming of the Earth in contemporary times prompted an official expert group to present a recommendation to the International Geological Congress to declare the geological period beginning since 1950 as the Anthropocene epoch.

Since 2009, the Working Group on the Anthropocene (WHA) has been working to set up a working model for the Anthropocene Epoch.

The epoch would be said to mark the impact of modern civilization on the climate and environment of the Earth involving humankind’s impact on global climate.

Modern levels of atmospheric CO2 are accelerating at a pace unprecedented in the history of previous geological periods. The annual rate of increase for atmospheric carbon dioxide levels in the late 1950’s was 0.7 ppm/ year, while between the years 2005 to 2014 this had increased to 2.1 ppm/ year.

Although the effects are slow to be realized, with the IPCC predicting the possibility of a rise in global temperatures by 3 degrees Celsius by 2080, the longer term effects with an increasing rate of acceleration in global atmospheric CO2 levels could have devastating effects on the Earth’s climatic patterns.

The human impact on Earth’s chemistry and climate have cut short the 11,700-year-old geological epoch known as the Holocene and ushered in a new one, scientists argue. The Anthropocene, or “new age of man,” would start from the mid-20th century (1950) if their recommendation is accepted.

Human impacts on modern-era Earth and its ecosystems may be considered of global significance for future evolution of living species, including approximately synchronous lithospheric evidence, or more recently atmospheric evidence of human impacts.

Given these, a new term, Anthropocene, is specifically proposed and used informally only for the very latest part of modern history involving significant human impact.

Conclusion:

The new divisions of the Holocene also cut into the available time for an Anthropocene. The Meghalayan begins 4,200 years ago and continues to the present. Simply put, there is no time left over in the Holocene where we could put an Anthropocene. For the Anthropocene to be included in the formal geologic time scale, stratigraphers will need to argue that its onset was global in scale, simultaneous around the world and significant in its imprint on the geologic record.

Topic: History of the world, political philosophies like communism, capitalism, socialism etc.- their forms and effect on the society.

The Labour Day is celebrated to commemorate the happenings of May 4, 1886, the Haymarket affair (Haymarket Massacre) in the Chicago. To commemorate this event, the Second International, a pan-national organisation of socialist and communist political parties, marked 1 May as the Labour Day in 1891.

Demand of the question:

This question seeks to examine the effects of Haymarket affair on the labour movement across the world and how has the world evolved since then towards Uniting Workers for Social and Economic Advancement.

Directive word:

Discuss – This is an all-encompassing directive – you have to debate on paper by going through the details of the issues concerned by examining each one of them. You have to give reasons for both for and against arguments.

Structure of the answer:

Introduction

Start with brief introduction of Why 1 May is observed as Labour Day? – to commemorate the happenings of May 4, 1886, the Haymarket affair (Haymarket Massacre) in the Chicago.

Body

Discuss the following points in detail:

What was Haymarket affair?

During industrialization at the beginning of the 19th Century, the industrialists used to exploit the labour class and made them work up to 15 hours a day.

The workers at Haymarket affair, in Chicago rose against this exploitation and demanded paid leaves, proper wages and breaks for the workforce.

The day marks the victory of the workers’ movement for eight hours of work.

To commemorate this event, the Second International, a pan-national organization of socialist and communist political parties, marked 1 May as the Labour Day in 1891.

Then discuss how have we evolved since them towards Uniting Workers for Social and Economic Advancement.

Have a brief discussion on India scenario too.

Conclusion

Conclude with significance of workers sacrifices in achieving economic and social rights all over the world.

Introduction:

International Labour Day, also known as International Worker’s Day or May Day is celebrated to honour the contribution of working men and women. The theme of Labour Day this year is – Uniting Workers for Social and Economic Advancement.

Body:

Haymarket Riot:

The Labour Day is celebrated to commemorate the happenings of May 4, 1886, the Haymarket affair (Haymarket Massacre) in the Chicago.

To commemorate this event, the Second International, a pan-national organisation of socialist and communist political parties, marked 1 May as the Labour Day in 1891.

It is a violent confrontation between police and labour protesters in Chicago on May 4, 1886, that became a symbol of the international struggle for workers’ rights.

US activists organized a national strike in Chicago’s Haymarket Square (US) to get 8-hour work-shift, Paid leave and reasonable pay for the workers.

On May 3 one person was killed and several injured as police intervened to protect strike-breakers and intimidate strikers during a union action at the McCormick Harvesting Machine Company that was part of a national campaign to secure an eight-hour workday.

To protest police brutality, anarchist labour leaders called a mass meeting the next day in Haymarket Square.

The Haymarket Riot created widespread hysteria directed against immigrants and labour leaders.

Amid the panic, August Spies and seven other anarchists were convicted of murder on the grounds that they had conspired with or aided an unknown assailant.

Evolution of labour field in world post the Haymarket Riots:

The Haymarket Riot had a lasting effect on the labour movement in the United States.

The Knights of Labour (KOL), at the time the largest and most successful union organization in the country, was blamed for the incident.

While the KOL also had sought an eight-hour day and had called several strikes to achieve that goal, its involvement in the riot could not be proved.

Public distrust, however, caused many KOL locals to join the newly formed and less-radical American Federation of Labour.

Popular pressure continued for the establishment of the 8-hour day.

At the convention of the American Federation of Labour (AFL) in 1888, the union decided to campaign for the shorter workday again. May 1, 1890, was agreed upon as the date on which workers would strike for an eight-hour work day.

In 1889, AFL president Samuel Gompers wrote to the first congress of the Second International, which was meeting in Paris. He informed the world’s socialists of the AFL’s plans and proposed an international fight for a universal eight-hour work day

During industrialization at the beginning of the 19th Century, the industrialists used to exploit the labour class and made them work up to 15 hours a day. The workers rose against this exploitation and demanded paid leaves, proper wages and breaks for the workforce.

Over time, the Labour Movement did indeed strengthen and grow throughout the nation. Organizations such as the American Federation of Labour (AFL) and the Congress of Industrial Organizations (CIO) grew tremendously in members and political influence.

Today, membership in unions has dropped substantially, especially in the private sector. Public sector union membership however remains strong and highly influential. Debate still rages about the need and cost impact of unions in the twenty first century.

Evolution in India:

In India, the first Labour Day or May Day was celebrated in 1923 in Chennai. Led by Singaravelar, leader of the Labour Kisan Party of Hindustan, two meetings were held, one at Triplicane Beach and one near the Madras High Court.

It was at these meetings that a resolution was passed urging the British government to declare May 1 as Labour Day and also a government holiday. It was the first occasion in India on which the red flag was used

The Unions in India were not recognised by the capitalists at the beginning, and the government backed their attitude. But the strength of the movement has forced recognition upon both of them.

But in India there is no strong Communist Party, and it will take some time to create an effective one.

The Indian Trade unions have now got a legal status and now they are not as ad-hoc bodies or strike committees.

They have now become a permanent feature of the industrial society. They have succeeded in organising Central Union Federations which help in the determination of principles, philosophy, ideology and purposes of the unions and give some sense of direction to the otherwise scattered and isolated unions.

Through the status, the unions have now gained; they have influenced public policy, labour and industrial legislations. They have succeeded in evolving suitable machinery of joint consultation to negotiate various issues between labour and management.

Conclusion:

In the modern industrial society, the importance of trade unions have been recognised which have diminished interest in political matters. Subtle changes are visible in the pattern of political unionism.

Topic: Issues relating to development and management of Social Sector/Services relating to Health, Education, Human Resources.

According to a report released by the UN Interagency Coordinating Group on Antimicrobial Resistance, Drug-resistant diseases could cause 10 million deaths each year by 2050. The article highlights a report from the Interagency Coordination Group on Antimicrobial Resistance (IACG) that puts the financial fall-out in perspective.

Key demand of the question:

The question expects one to analyse the economic shocks or consequences that uncontrolled antimicrobial resistance may lead for the world to face. One must suggest way forward for India to tackle such a situation that may soon arise in coming future.

Directive word:

Criticallyanalyze – When asked to analyze, you have to examine methodically the structure or nature of the topic by separating it into component parts and present them as a whole in a summary. When ‘critically’ is suffixed or prefixed to a directive, one needs to look at the good and bad of the topic and give a fair judgement.

Structure of the answer:

Introduction:

Begin with brief narration of current scenario of uncontrolled antimicrobial resistance.

Body:

Discussion should include the following aspects –

Why is the problem of uncontrolled antimicrobial resistance?

The difficulty has been in implementing it, given the twin challenges of antibiotic overuse and underuse.

poorly regulated pharmaceutical industry means that antibiotics are freely available to those who can afford them.

low immunization rates and drinking water contamination. Etc.

What will be the consequences of failure to take measures against the above problems?

What needs to be done?

phasing out critical human-use antibiotics in the animal husbandry sector, such as quinolones.

Private pharmaceutical industries must take it upon themselves to distribute drugs in a responsible manner.

Philanthropic charities must fund the development of new antibiotics, while citizen activists must drive awareness.

stakeholders must appreciate that the only way to postpone resistance is through improved hygiene and vaccinations etc.

Conclusion:

Conclude with immediate focused action needed to curb the menace of antimicrobial resistance.

Introduction:

The WHO defines antibiotic resistance (AMR) as a condition wherein microbes survive when exposed to the drug which would have normally caused them to die. Antibiotics that once cured ailments across the spectrum are now turning into a potential source of prolonged illness, disability and death.

A report from the Interagency Coordination Group on Antimicrobial Resistance (IACG) puts the financial fall-out in perspective. Titled “No Time to Wait: Securing The Future From Drug Resistant Infections”, it says in about three decades from now uncontrolled antimicrobial resistance will cause global economic shocks on the scale of the 2008-09 financial crisis.

Body:

Financial impacts of Uncontrolled AMR:

With nearly 10 million people estimated to die annually from resistant infections by 2050, health-care costs and the cost of food production will spike, while income inequality will widen.

In the worst-case scenario, the world will lose 3.8% of its annual GDP by 2050, while 24 million people will be pushed into extreme poverty by 2030.

Nations must acknowledge this eventuality, the IACG says, and act to fight it. For high- and mid-income nations, the price of prevention, at $2 per head a year, is extremely affordable.

For poorer countries, the price is higher but still modest compared to the costs of an antibiotic apocalypse.

Causes of AMR:

Other causes:

WHO survey shows that three quarters (75%) of respondents think, incorrectly, that colds and flu can be treated with antibiotics.

Discharge of antimicrobial waste into the environment from pharmaceutical industry.

Growing antibiotic use in the animal sector and increased demand for meat and poultry.

Nexus between doctors and pharmaceutical companies where doctors routinely receive compensation in exchange for antibiotic prescriptions.

Lack of new antibiotics being developed.

Poor infection control in hospitals and clinics.

Concerns due to increase AMR:

Without concerted action, Drug-resistant diseases could cause 10 million deaths each year by 2050, and trigger an economic slowdown to rival the global financial crisis of 2008.warned the UN Ad Hoc Interagency Coordinating Group on Antimicrobial Resistance in a report.

It added that by 2030, antimicrobial resistance could force up to 24 million people into extreme poverty. In the worst-case scenario, the world will lose 3.8% of its annual GDP by 2050.

Currently, at least 7,00,000 people die each year due to drug-resistant diseases, including 2,30,000 people who die from multidrug-resistant tuberculosis.

It also noted that more and more common diseases, including respiratory tract infections, sexually transmitted infections and urinary tract infections, are becoming untreatable.

Lifesaving medical procedures are becoming riskier, and food systems are getting increasingly precarious. A very significant part of out-of-pocket expenditure on health care is on medicines. The ineffective drugs and/or second line expensive antibiotics is pushing the treatment costs higher.

The report noted that the world is already feeling the economic and health consequences as crucial medicines become ineffective.

Without investment from countries in all income brackets, future generations will face the disastrous impacts of uncontrolled antimicrobial resistance.

Steps taken to deal with the menace:

Indian Association of Paediatrics, the Global Antibiotic Resistance Partnership, and the Chennai Declaration have helped build awareness about the problem.

ICMR has set up National Anti-Microbial Surveillance Network for understanding of mechanisms of resistance.

National Policy for Containment of Antimicrobial Resistance (2011), to address the problem of multi-drug resistance.

India developed National Action Plan to combat Antimicrobial Resistance as part of India’s commitment to the WHO’s Global Action Plan.

Steps needed to fight AMR:

Rationalizing antibiotic use to limit antibiotic resistance in India.

Improving regulation of drug production and sales

Better managing physician compensation

Encouraging behavior change among doctors and patients are of immediate priority.

Regulation of the e-Pharmacies which gives an easy access to drugs.

Improved management of the health care delivery systems, both public and private, will minimize conditions favourable for the development of drug resistance.

Improved awareness of antimicrobial resistance through effective communication. WHO’s World Antibiotic Awareness Week is one such event.

Reducing the incidence of infection through effective infection prevention and control. As stated by WHO, making infection prevention and hand hygiene a national policy priority.

Discourage non-therapeutic use of antimicrobial agents in veterinary, agriculture and fishery practices as growth-promoting agents.

Promoting investments for antimicrobial resistance activities, research and innovations

Strengthening India’s commitment and collaborations on antimicrobial resistance at international, national and sub-national levels.

Regulate the release of antibiotic waste from pharmaceutical production facilities and monitoring antibiotic residues in wastewater.

Topic: Functions and responsibilities of the Union and the States, issues and challenges pertaining to the federal structure, devolution of powers and finances up to local levels and challenges therein.

The Madras court recently passed a judgement stating that the Administrator of Puducherry (the term used in the Constitution to refer to the Lieutenant-Governor (L-G)) could not interfere with the day-to-day administration of the Union Territory when an elected government was in place as that amounts to running a “parallel government.”

Key demand of the question:

The answer must evaluate the nuances of Articles 239A vs 239AA of the Indian constitution and Section 44 of the Government of Union Territories Act, 1963 amidst the recent controversies surrounding Puducherry administration.

Directive:

Elucidate – Clarify the topic by giving a detailed account as to how and why it occurred, or what is the particular context. You must be defining key terms where ever appropriate, and substantiate with relevant associated facts.

Structure of the answer:

Introduction:

Brief upon the background of the controversies surrounding Puducherry.

Body:

Provide for the key highlights of the recent Madras High Court judgement – The Administrator of Puducherry (the term used in the Constitution to refer to the Lieutenant-Governor (L-G)) could not interfere with the day-to-day administration of the Union Territory when an elected government was in place as that amounts to running a “parallel government.”

Bring out a comparison between Articles 239A vs 239AA – how it is different in case of Delhi and in that of Puducherry.

Section 44 of the Government of Union Territories Act, 1963: It states that there shall be a Council of Ministers in each UT to aid and advice the Administrator who shall act in his/her discretion only in so far as any ‘special responsibilities’ were concerned. However, since the Act does not specify the ‘special responsibilities’ the Administrator and the Council of Ministers should leave the political differences apart to facilitate the smooth functioning of the government.

Discuss what needs to be done to overcome such a tussle.

Conclusion:

Conclude with a balanced opinion based on your analysis.

Introduction:

Government of Puducherry is a democratically elected body that governs the Union Territory of Puducherry, India. It is headed by the Lieutenant Governor of Puducherry as its nominal head, with a democratically elected Chief Minister as real head of the executive.

The Madras High Court has ruled that the Lieutenant-Governor (L-G) of Puducherry could not interfere with the day-to-day administration of the Union Territory when an elected government was in place. The court said incessant interference from the L-G would amount to running a “parallel government.”

Body:

Key observations made by the Madras High Court:

The Central government as well as the Administrator [the term used in the Constitution to refer to the L-G] should be true to the concept of democratic principles. Otherwise, the constitutional scheme of the country of being democratic and republic would be defeated.

Government secretaries were bound to take instructions from the Ministers and the Council of Ministers, headed by the Chief Minister. Government secretaries of the Puducherry administration were required to report to the Council of Ministers headed by the Chief Minister on all official matters.

Article 239A symbolises the supremacy of the Legislature above the Administrator in case of the Union Territory of Puducherry.

The secretaries are not empowered to issue orders on their own or upon the instructions of the Administrator.

Government officials cannot be a part of social media groups through which the L-G was issuing instructions to them for redress of public grievances. As per rules, they were bound to use only authorised medium of communication when it came to issues related to administration.

Powers and sources of LG of Puducherry:

The Government of Union Territories Act, 1963 provides for a Legislative Assembly of Pondicherry (as Puducherry was then called), with a Council of Ministers to govern the “Union Territory of Pondicherry”. The same Act says that the UT will be administered by the President of India through an Administrator (LG).

Section 44 of the Act, which deals with the Council of Ministers and its working, says the Council of Ministers headed by a Chief Minister will “aid and advise the Administrator in the exercise of his functions in relation to matters with respect to which the Legislative Assembly of the Union Territory has power to make laws”.

The same clause also allows the LG to “act in his discretion” in the matter of lawmaking, even though the Council of Ministers has the task of aiding and advising him. In case of a difference of opinion between the LG and his Ministers on any matter, the Administrator is bound to refer it to the President for a decision and act according to the decision given by the President.

However, the Administrator can also claim that the matter is urgent, and take immediate action as he deems necessary.

Under Rule 47, which deals with persons serving in the UT government, the Administrator exercises powers regulating the conditions of service of such persons in consultation with the Chief Minister. In case the LG has a difference of opinion with the Chief Minister, he can refer the matter to the central government for the decision of the President.

Comparison with powers of LG of Delhi:

The powers of the LG of Puducherry are different from the ones of the LG of Delhi, the other UT that has an elected legislature and government.

The LG of Delhi has “Executive Functions” that allow him to exercise his powers in matters connected to public order, police and land “in consultation with the Chief Minister, if it is so provided under any order issued by the President under Article 239 of the Constitution”. Simply put, the LG of Delhi enjoys greater powers than the LG of Puducherry.

While the LG of Delhi is also guided by the Government of National Capital Territory of Delhi Act, 1991, and the Transaction of Business of the Government of National Capital Territory of Delhi Rules, 1993, the LG of Puducherry is guided mostly by the Government of Union Territories Act, 1963.

Articles 239 and 239AA of the Constitution, as well as the Government of National Capital Territory of Delhi Act, 1991, clearly underline that Delhi is a UT, where the Centre, whose eyes and ears are the LG, has a much more prominent role than in Puducherry.

Under the constitutional scheme, the Delhi Assembly has the power to legislate on all subjects except law and order and land. However, the Puducherry Assembly can legislate on any issue under the Concurrent and State Lists. However, if the law is in conflict with a law passed by Parliament, the law passed by Parliament prevails.

Way forward:

Although the existence of a Governor was debated in the Constituent Assembly and critics exist for his role but, the Governor and Lt Governor play a pivotal role in running the constitutional machinery of states and Union Territories especially during a crisis situation.

The Central government as well as the Administrator should be true to the concept of democratic principles. Otherwise, the constitutional scheme of the country of being democratic and republic would be defeated.

Governor needs to play his/her role effectively to maintain Constitutional provisions and bring peace and stability in the region.

Topic: Indian Economy and issues relating to planning, mobilization of resources, growth, development and employment.

Recently Bank of Maharashtra, a state-run lender, has decided not to extend loans in eight zones in Maharashtra and Madhya Pradesh which are hit by drought. Thus it becomes necessary for us to analyse the correlation of droughts and priority sector lending in agriculture.

Key demand of the question:

Analyse in detail the negative correlation of climatic conditions of a region with that of lending by Banks to the farmers.

Directive word:

Criticallyanalyze – When asked to analyze, you have to examine methodically the structure or nature of the topic by separating it into component parts and present them as a whole in a summary. When ‘critically’ is suffixed or prefixed to a directive, one needs to look at the good and bad of the topic and give a fair judgement.

Why Banks are defying the lending to drought hit regions? – Bad loans from agricultural advances in the branches of such zones, present pathetic condition of agriculture owing to water distress etc.

Explain why is there a negative correlation? What are its impact ?

What should be the remedial action?

Conclusion:

Conclude with what needs to be done to address the situation.

Introduction:

Priority Sector Lending (PSL) is an important role given by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) to the banks for providing a specified portion of the bank lending to few specific sectors like agriculture and allied activities, micro and small enterprises, poor people for housing, students for education and other low income groups and weaker sections. This is essentially meant for an all round development of the economy as opposed to focusing only on the financial sector.

Recently Bank of Maharashtra, a state-run lender, has decided not to extend loans in eight zones in Maharashtra and Madhya Pradesh which are hit by drought.

Body:

Priority sector lending norms:

Currently, all domestic and foreign banks with at least 20 branches are required to lend a minimum of 40 per cent of their total loans (Adjusted Net Bank Credit (ANBC) or credit equivalent amount of off-balance sheet exposure (whichever is higher)) to the priority sector (agriculture, micro enterprises, education, social housing, etc).

They are also required to meet sub-targets, such as 18 per cent for agriculture (8 per cent for small and marginal farmers), 7.5 per cent for micro enterprises and 10 per cent for weaker sections.

Those with less than 20 branches will also need to fulfil the overall PSL norms of 40% of adjusted net bank credit (ANBC) in a phased manner by 2020

PSL norms are often seen negatively by banks because:

It diverts funds from the productive sectors, imposes economic burdens on the banks in the form of loan losses and payment defaults and also imposes opportunity costs of lending to non-priority sectors of the economy.

These negative effects are increased transaction costs, increased NPAs and the decreased deposit mobilization. Since the subsidized nature of loans under the directed credit forces the banks to pay lower interest rates on deposits, this makes the deposits a less attractive avenue for the people which ultimately impact the banks.

Agriculture and credit risk:

Problem with priority sector loans is the lack of understanding of the sub-sectoral target groups, especially agriculture and the small and medium sector, as also weaker sections.

Further, given the vagaries of the monsoon that agriculture is susceptible to and the undiversified risk portfolios in such rural areas, the credit risks for such banks from such PSL would be extremely high.

The guidelines for agricultural credit and lending to weaker sections are extremely complex the commercial banks may not be the best equipped to handle beneficiary identification, credit risk assessment and loan disbursement to these sectors.

Same would be the case for PSL to the micro, small and medium enterprise (MSME) sector. The sector, with its unorganized operations and lack of proper accounting records and financial statements, poses higher costs and greater risks in credit disbursement.

PSL norms are needed because:

Those who are directly affected comprises of mainly weaker sections of society like farmers and small scale industries.

PSL was created to ensure support for sectors of the economy that do not receive adequate credit or support from financial institutions due to questions of profitability.

It is also claimed that PSL results in social returns and improved lending portfolios of the banks.

The directed lending promotes social equity and facilitates increase in employment and investment in less developed regions and the vulnerable sections of the society.

Average PSL ratio overall is well above the target over the entire period, with some degree of variation. However, the average lending to agriculture and weaker sections is much below the RBI target. All banks have defaulted on their sub-sectoral targets, especially that of 18% for agriculture, in most years.

Priority sector loans have contributed far less to the gross non-performing assets (NPAs) .priority sector lending may not be responsible for compromising banks’ credit risk minimization strategies, or risk accumulation.

Removal of existing loan limits of up to ₹5 crore to micro and small units and up to ₹10 crore to medium enterprises, will help banks make good the shortfall in MSME loans that qualify as priority sector lending.

Way forward:

Banks should be allowed to choose the category they wish to lend to. Foreign banks may then choose to lend in the form of export credit rather than to agriculture.

Creation of a development finance institution that would provide a mix of grants and loans to under-served sectors and geographies.

The new institution can raise capital from commercial banks through existing innovative instruments like the PSL certificates, specify minimum sectoral disbursement targets and choose projects based on independent risk assessment and intended outcomes.

This will support the policy objectives of increased credit and reduce systemic risk, making PSL work in the long run

Similarly, private sector banks may choose to lend housing credit in urban areas, rather than being forced to lend agricultural finance.

The government may rely on specialized institutions such as the National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD) to fulfil sectoral lending targets, while at the same time ensuring structural reforms in these sectors to make lending to them more viable.

Topic : Indian Economy and issues relating to planning, mobilization of resources, growth, development and employment.

The question is intended to evaluate the potential of Horticulture as a standalone sector in India and how it can help double farmer’s income and its role in proving to be a source of livelihood in Indian agriculture.

Key demand of the question:

The answer must discuss the importance of horticulture to India in doubling farmer’s income along with the achievements of Mission for Integrated Development of Horticulture (MIDH).

Directive word:

Examine – When asked to ‘Examine’, we have to look into the topic (content words) in detail, inspect it, investigate it and establish the key facts and issues related to the topic in question. While doing so we should explain why these facts and issues are important and their implications.

Structure of the answer:

Introduction:

In a few introductory lines provide for current scenario of horticulture in India, provide for statistics – The Indian agricultural land covers area of 140 million hectares out of which, 17% of area is dedicated to horticultural crops that contributes to 30% of total agricultural GDP.

Discuss how has the horticulture section performed lately in quantitative and qualitative terms ? Also, frame the statistics comparing it with the overall agriculture sector.

How can we increase our produce quality and quantity?

Discuss the achievements of Mission for Integrated Development of Horticulture (MIDH).

Conclusion:

Conclude with potential of horticulture in India and need to harvest it.

Introduction:

Within the agriculture sector, the horticulture sector is widely recognised as the most rapidly growing sector. It has been rightly called as the silent revolution because of its varied achievements. The Indian agricultural land covers area of 140 million hectares out of which, 17% of area is dedicated to horticultural crops that contributes to 30% of total agricultural GDP.

It subsumed six ongoing schemes of the Department of Agriculture and cooperation on horticulture development. Out of these six schemes three are centrally sponsored schemes: National Horticultural Mission; Horticulture Mission for North east and Himalayas; National Bamboo Mission and the three Central sector schemes: National Horticulture Board; Coconut Development Board; Central Institute of Horticulture, Nagaland

Adopting drip irrigation cum fertigation system of irrigation for more crop per drop. Weather forecasting advisory body to be popularised for strategic planning of cultural practices for minimising losses.

Promotion of contract farming and buy back arrangement for encouraging farmers to adopt horti based farming.

Promotion of horti tourism in states like J&K, HP, Uttarakhand, and North eastern states.

Conclusion:

Over the years, horticulture has emerged as one of the potential agricultural enterprise in accelerating the growth of the economy. Its role in the country’s nutritional security, poverty alleviation and employment generation programmes is becoming increasingly important. On account of significant production increases in horticultural crops across the country, a Golden revolution is in the offing and India has emerged as a leading player in the global scenario.

Recently the National Crisis Management Committee (NCMC) under the chairmanship of Sh. P. K. Sinha, Cabinet Secretary, met again to take stock of the preparatory measures arising out of the Cyclonic Storm ‘Fani’. Thus it is important for us to know the working of NCMC and its importance.

Key demand of the question:

The answer must provide for a detailed explanation about the role played NCMC in handling crisis circumstances like that of cyclone Fani to effectively mitigate such situations.

Directive word:

Discuss – This is an all-encompassing directive – you have to debate on paper by going through the details of the issues concerned by examining each one of them. You have to give reasons for both for and against arguments.

Structure of the answer

Introduction:

write a few introductory lines about the importance of such committees.

Body:

Answers must discuss the following aspects :

About NCMC- At the national level, Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) and National Crisis Management Committee (NCMC) are the key committees involved in the top-level decision-making with respect to Disaster Management (DM). It deals with major crisis which have serious or national ramifications.

Its key functions – Oversee the Command, Control and Coordination of the disaster response. Give direction to the Crisis Management Group (CMG) as deemed necessary.

Conclusion –

Conclude with significance of such organs in handling crisis situations.

Introduction:

A National Crisis Management Committee is a temporary committee set up by the Government of India in the wake of a natural calamity for effective coordination and implementation of relief measures and operations. It is headed by Cabinet Secretary. Recently the National Crisis Management Committee (NCMC) under the chairmanship of Sh. P. K. Sinha, Cabinet Secretary, met again to take stock of the preparatory measures arising out of the Cyclonic Storm ‘Fani’.

Body:

Significance:

It is the country’s apex body to handle emergency situations.

At the national level, Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) and National Crisis Management Committee (NCMC) are the key committees involved in the top-level decision-making with respect to Disaster Management (DM).

It deals with major crisis which have serious or national ramifications.

Composition:

A National Crisis Management Committee (NCMC) has been constituted in the Cabinet Secretariat. The composition of the Committee is as under:-

Cabinet Secretary- Chairman

Secretary to Prime Minister Member

Secretary (MHA) Member

Secretary (MCD) Member

Director (IB) Member

Secretary (R&AW) Member

Secretary (Agri & Coopn.) Co-opted Member

An officer of Cabinet Secretariat. Convenor

Key functions:

NCMC reviews the preparedness with the States and concerned Departments of Government of India to deal with the situation arising out of the natural calamities.

It directs mobilisation of additional resources to all agencies who are engaged in rescue and relief operations

It looks after the effective implementation of relief measures in the wake of a natural calamity

NCMC will give such directions to the Crisis Management Group of the Home Ministry as deemed necessary.

The Secretary (A&C) will be responsible for ensuring that all developments are brought to the notice of the NCMC promptly.

Conclusion:

Thus, the NCMC plays a vital role in disaster management by overseeing the Command, Control and Coordination of the disaster response.

Topic : Ethics and Human Interface: Essence, determinants and consequences of Ethics in human actions; dimensions of ethics; ethics in private and public relationships.

The question is intended to evaluate the essence of self-evaluation in assisting ethical conduct in a profession.

Key demand of the question:

The answer must discuss the importance of self-evaluation in supporting ethical conduct in a profession. One must provide for examples to illustrate the same.

Structure of the answer:

Introduction:

In a few introductory lines appreciate the need for ethical conduct in one’s profession

Body:

Such questions are best explained with examples, use a case study /example from your experiences and suggest how self-evaluation is critical to one’s ethical conduct in one’s professional life.Ethics is defined by morals, values, character and integrity. A moral is a personal standard of right and wrong. Values are important beliefs that guide and an individual behavior. Self-evaluation helps to understand what it means to demonstrate positive ethical behavior in the workplace.Employee conduct is an integral aspect of workplace values and ethics. Respectful behaviour honors the dignity and contribution of each employee. It promotes positive behaviors in communication and interpersonal relations, as well as with external partners, clients and stakeholders, Respect earns trust.

Use examples to justify the above points.

Conclusion:

Conclude with significance.

Introduction:

Professional ethics encompass the personal, and corporate standards of behavior expected by professionals. Good ethical conduct in the workplace indicates that employees take pride in their company’s ethical standards and have respect for other employees, customers, suppliers and partners. Typically, a model for professional conduct consists of a set of rules that prescribe a baseline of legal ethics and professional responsibilities.

Body:

For example, consider the profession of management. A manger who is Self-Aware makes him more effective by:

Leadership: When we understand “what make us tick”–what gets us excited, why we behave the way we do, etc.–we also have insight into what makes others tick. To the extent that other people are like you, knowing how to motivate yourself is tantamount to knowing how to motivate others.

Developing intuitive decision-making skills: Leaders with well-developed emotional self-awareness are more effective intuitive decision makers. People who are highly emotionally self-aware are better able to read their “gut feelings” and use them to guide decisions.

Stress: Helps manage stress and better work-life balance.

Motivation: Self-awareness is empowering because it can reveal where the performance problems are and indicate what can be done to improve performance.

Empathising: To understand his co-workers better and get the best out of everyone.

Skill development: Having an accurate sense of who you are helps you decide what you should do to improve. Often, self-awareness will reveal a skills gap that you want to work on.

Conclusion:

Self-awareness can improve our judgment and help us identify opportunities for professional development and personal growth. Self-awareness allows you to motivate yourself and manage your stress better, helps you with your intuitive decision making, and helps you to lead and motivate others more effectively.